Former U.S. President Donald Trump has long been criticized for his seemingly unwavering support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, a stance that has once again come under scrutiny following his recent comments about Ukraine and its leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. While Trump has been quick to label Zelenskyy a “dictator,” he has remained largely silent on Putin’s increasingly authoritarian rule, including the suppression of opposition voices, crackdowns on dissent, and aggressive military actions.
This pattern of deference to the Russian leader has led many to ask: What does Russia have on Trump?
A History of Admiration
Trump’s admiration for Putin is nothing new. Throughout his presidency, he repeatedly downplayed concerns about Russian election interference, cast doubt on U.S. intelligence assessments, and even stood alongside Putin in Helsinki in 2018, contradicting his own intelligence agencies.
His reluctance to criticize Russia starkly contrasts with his aggressive stance on NATO allies and European leaders. Even after leaving office, Trump has continued to praise Putin, calling him “savvy” and “smart” while condemning Western efforts to counter Russian aggression in Ukraine.
The Zelenskyy Hypocrisy
Trump’s latest attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has left many puzzled. He labeled Zelenskyy a “dictator” despite the fact that Ukraine remains a democratic nation fighting for its sovereignty against an unprovoked Russian invasion. Meanwhile, Putin, who has crushed political opposition, suppressed media freedoms, and extended his rule indefinitely, continues to escape Trump’s criticism.
This double standard has fueled speculation about why Trump sees no wrongdoing in Putin’s actions but consistently targets Russia’s adversaries.
The ‘Kompromat’ Theory
One of the most persistent theories is that Russia has some form of kompromat—compromising material—on Trump. During the 2016 election, unverified reports surfaced claiming that Russia had collected potentially damaging information on Trump, including financial dealings and personal scandals. While no definitive proof has emerged, Trump’s business ties to Russian oligarchs and past dealings in Moscow have long raised suspicions.
Furthermore, Trump’s financial records have shown deep entanglements with foreign entities, and his campaign’s interactions with Russian operatives led to multiple investigations. Critics argue that whether through blackmail, financial leverage, or simply a shared authoritarian worldview, Trump’s loyalty to Putin remains inexplicably strong.
A Political Strategy?
Others believe Trump’s stance on Russia is less about blackmail and more about political calculation. By aligning himself with Putin and opposing Ukraine, Trump is catering to his base, which includes a faction that views Russia as a strong, anti-globalist force. His stance also undermines President Joe Biden’s support for Ukraine, allowing Trump to frame himself as the leader of an “America First” movement that prioritizes isolationism over international alliances.
Additionally, Trump’s legal battles and potential re-election campaign may be influencing his rhetoric. Some analysts suggest that he sees Putin as a potential ally if he returns to the White House, someone who could assist him politically or financially in ways yet unknown.
What Comes Next?
As Trump eyes a potential return to power in 2024, his stance on Russia remains a major concern for U.S. foreign policy. If he is re-elected, his approach to NATO, Ukraine, and global security could shift dramatically, potentially weakening the Western alliance against Russian aggression.
Whether Trump’s loyalty to Putin is due to leverage, ideology, or political maneuvering remains unclear. But one thing is certain—his reluctance to hold Russia accountable continues to raise red flags about what, if anything, Russia has on him.
source:www.nsemgh.com
